Elton John Cancels Las Vegas Appearances to Be Treated For Rare Infection

Elton John has cancelled eight of his "The Million Dollar Piano" shows at Caesar's Palace in Las Vegas after he was forced to rest to battle a bacterial infection.

According to sources, Elton contracted the infection while touring South America and, on the trip home to the U.K. from Chile, became violently ill. He was admitted to the hospital after landing where he spent two days in intensive care.

On Saturday, Elton was released from the hospital but has been ordered to bed rest, forcing the cancellation of the Las Vegas shows plus an appearance in Bakersfield, CA on May 6.

Elton issued a statement, saying "I am so fortunate to have the most incredible and loyal fans and apologise for disappointing them. I am extremely grateful to the medical team for their excellence in looking after me so well."

The singer is expected to make a full recovery. His next scheduled show is June 3 in Twickenham, England.